Rifle Scopes Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

[Canis Latrans]

Hey everyone. I'm looking to get a mildot scope in the $200 range. Main use will be shooting out to 300 yards and hunting deer (rarely). I'm looking at both these scopes (the 10x40 Bushnell)and I can't decide between the two.

I like how the Bushnell looks a lot more, and like how the fixed magnification will be more precise for using the mil-dot system as I am really excited to do. But I really like the side parallax on the buckmaster and the ability to go down to 4.5x for hunting. Which scope do you guys think is clearer? Is 10x ok for occasional deer hunting?

Finally, I realize there are better scopes out there but I am completely satisfied with the quality of my 4x Prostaff on my .22. I don't need the best of the best, just something reliable and decent. If I get more into shooting I will buy a better scope. Also I can get a deal on both of these scopes right now. Thank you!

 

[eleaf]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

For hunting? The Buckmaster for sure.

10x will likely cause you trouble if your target is close and moving. Tracking it at 10x will be a bitch, and may cost you a shot because of a lack of field of view.

For paper, I would suggest the Elite 3200 10x40, cause it's a great scope, but not for hunting applications. Not if you can get a dedicated hunting scope.

 

[Canis Latrans]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

Hmm, I see what you're saying but I could use my 16ga. with slugs for hunting in the woods, and the rifle for when I'm in the field. The FOV at 100 yards should be around 11ft which should be easy to get a shot on a standing deer shouldn't it?

 

[ker2222]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

only if you pull right up on the deer......


you can make anything work if you all you have is all u have. And, in an ideal situation, deer standing still at the edge of a field about a 100yrds away, you'll be fine with a fixed 10x.

But, if its a less than ideal shot, if its moving or in closer, 10x gets a little bit more dicey. If you play around with the math and say the deer if 5 feet long and takes about a 2-3 foot stride, that 11 feet gets eaten up pretty quick....and that is at 100.....at 75 or less and it really gets problematic.

For me, I like to see the whole animal in the scope....for reference, point of aim and even for hold off's if necessary. fixed means just that...no other options. Options are good....

BTW, to my eyes the buckmaster gives a little better clarity as well. I have the bushnell and several buckmasters.....

 

[nitrousneil]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

i have a bushnell 3200 10x40 on my 223 and i primarly use it for paper punching, i can see my impacts out to 600yrds, i usually shoot 12in. square targets and it is crystal clear at 300yrd., i also use it for coyote hunting and the fixed 10x is more than enough power at the range you are going to use it, i personally dont have a problem using mine at under 100yrds. i like to be able to see close up on my target. i dont think you should have a field of view problem untill like 50yrds and under.

 

[Canis Latrans]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

Ok thanks a lot you guys. My solution right now is to go with the Bushnell. I'll use it to get to know my gun, target shooting and perhaps some coyote hunting. When deer season opens up I'm going to get a hunting scope. Most likely a 3-9x40 Nikoplex style Nikon Prostaff. The Prostaffs have a better FOV than the buckmasters and less tunnel vision effect. They are cheap but good for the money, and for those that say you should buy better glass for hunting, if I'm taking under 100 yard shots with it it should be plenty clear.

 

[JacobWilliams]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

I have the Bushnell 3200 10x40 on my rifle, and if you need to get a quick close shot off at less than 100 yards forget it, I have missed several coyotes because of this. For paper punching and longer shots its great. It is fixing to get replaced with a 4200 in FFP and MIL/MIl. One thing where this scope shines in is light gathering. It is super bright in low light hunting applications. I like the scope for what I do, it is resonably priced and is a good entry level scope.

 

[CGoodwin]

Re: Bushnell Elite 3200 vs Nikon Buckmaster 4.5-14x

I have used the Bushnell 10x40 on a couple of rifles for paper punching at known distances as well. Great for an entry level training scope. Not so good for hunting as the field of view is relatively small for near shots. Here in South Texas, deer "hunting" is basically target shooting at known distances as the hunter sets up a blind a known distance from their feeder which they stockk with corn all summer long. So, Bambi walks up to get his daily meal on day and said hunter is in his blind with his scope zeroed to the range of the feeder. Crosshairs on target, squeeze and bang! not really what I call hunting, I guess. So, I would reinforce the 3-9 or 3.5-10 variable scope for hunting. I personally use a 1.5-6x for night time hog hunting and it works great!